Tanya Chaldaris

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

SKILLS

ABOUT TANYA CHALDARIS

I am a transformational leader shaped by resilience, purpose, and the belief that every child, regardless of background, deserves access to opportunity, dignity, and joy.I am the daughter of an immigrant garment cutter who made a living in the downtown Los Angeles fashion district. My family moved frequently as work came and went. When times were hardest, we experienced homelessness. I grew up watching my parents survive with grit and grace, despite being met with open hostility for who they were and how little we had.In high school, despite high test scores, I was told by a counselor, “Kids like you don’t go to college.” I dropped out months later. But my story didn’t end there.My mother began attending college, and I followed her example. I earned my high school diploma and associate’s degree. I’ve carried a “never too late to start again” mindset ever since. I went on to earn a BA focused on language acquisition, a teaching credential, and served in Title I schools, knowing firsthand what it means to be underserved.After a decade in the classroom, I earned a Master’s in Educational Leadership with distinction, followed by an administrative credential. I eventually earned my Doctor of Education in K–12 Urban Education at the University of Southern California, the very institution I was once told not to bother dreaming about.My professional life reflects the same values that shaped me: equity, access, healing, and belonging. I’ve been a teacher, specialist, founder, principal, and director spanning all of Transitional Kindergarten through 12th grade. I build human-centered systems that elevate voices and break cycles. I lead with love, intellect, and integrity.My lived experience isn’t something I overcame, it\'s what I carry forward as fuel. I know what it feels like to be counted out. That’s why I’ve made it my life’s work to make sure no child, or educator, is ever made to feel that way again.Let’s connect. I’m open to meaningful leadership opportunities where my story, skills, and values can drive transformational impact.